WeGo has been my family's home since 2017; we love this community.
In 2023, we gave away books for Halloween. The children loved it an took nearly all our books. I was thrilled to pass on our love of reading.
Then I read a report stating almost half our country's adults weren't reading. I was stunned, and my journey to the library began. If elected, I want to continue what my family started in 2023 and encourage a love of reading in our community.
My background in psychology and finance allows me to combine analytical skills with emotional intelligence. My strengths include building relationships, problem-solving, and decision-making, which will help ensure our library is fiscally responsible while remaining responsive to patrons.
A significant challenge today is the shift to social media. People receive information differently, and institutions must be well-informed about the best ways to reach people.
To address this, we must embrace social media and technology. In practice, this could mean creating technology internships with Community High School. Such programs would give students relevant experience while helping the library stay current.
Another challenge facing WeGo is economic development. We must take steps to ensure local businesses employ our residents. Our library can work with the city and local businesses to offer apprenticeships, career fairs, skill development workshops, and resume assistance.
Communication is key to developing strong, cohesive relationships between board members and within the community. Open communication is essential for strong and engaged teams. Board members must feel free to express opinions with the expectation of being respected and heard, even if opinions differ. Board unity strengthens the decision-making process and ensures that everyone feels valued.
The board must focus on the library’s mission, but ensuring our mission aligns with our community’s needs is just as important. We can accomplish this through outreach. The library can conduct user surveys, designate board member “office hours” to meet with residents, or sponsor local activities to increase awareness about our library’s services.
As a library board trustee, I would focus on outreach and community engagement. I would love to see our library partner with local schools, organizations, and businesses. Ensuring the library’s mission aligns with the community’s needs is essential. As community representatives, we must continue to reach out to residents and meet them where they are. That is how connections grow, and we strengthen the fabric of our community.
With my background, I am confident I would bring valuable insights to the board. As trustee, I would be committed to ensuring our library continues to thrive as a hub of learning, growth, and connection to enrich our community further.
Campaign Phone
6305251033
Professionally, I’ve worked in politics, news, and nonprofits for nearly 20 years. With a master’s in multimedia journalism, I deeply value reference materials and their caretakers—resources that support early readers, job seekers, and even legislation.
Two years ago, I served on the library’s Decennial Committee on Local Government Efficiency. Our takeaway was that the West Chicago Library operates exceptionally well, with most efficiency goals already covered in its 2022-2025 Strategic Plan.
However, I noticed some board members frequently absent from meetings. Attendance is fundamental, so I decided to run. If elected, I’d prioritize showing up.
West Chicago is dynamic, with young families drawn to our dual language program and immigrants starting businesses at high rates. Yet, a disconnect remains between some American-born and immigrant neighborhoods. Our multicultural heritage is an asset, and the library is a key place to showcase it.
If elected, I’ll support wise choices in staffing, programming, and marketing to bring people together. While our schools attract families, our downtown remains stagnant, with many empty buildings. As one of the best-maintained downtown buildings, and a physical anchor for the city, the library can play a role in revitalization through events and strong city collaboration.
I’ve worked with a lot of elected bodies. The current leadership of the West Chicago Library is among the most collegiate groups you will find. At a time when national politics feel particularly divisive and difficult to navigate, I look forward to continuing their example of collaboration and respect.
Board meetings are not currently streamed, which may not be a demand from the community, but might be helpful for those who work second or third shift and cannot participate in evening meetings.
Agendas, minutes and budgets are all currently available for viewing in English. These documents should be provided in Spanish as well.
The West Chicago Public Library functions at an exceptional level, standing out as one of the city's most effective institutions. It is efficient with its resources and in October it will finish executing a comprehensive multi-year strategic plan. Some of the current board members have served for many years, and have done a great job; we thank them and are excited for this new group to bring fresh energy and perspective.
My experience on the citizen committee, insights as a writer and marketer, and deep roots in the community would make me a valuable addition to the board. If I’m not elected, I’ll happily jump onto the Library Foundation (which is open to all!), and I hope that my fellow candidates would do the same.
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